The Victory Support Foundation, led by its founder and CEO, Ambassador Olubunmi Olufunmilayo Lawal, has taken another bold step in the fight against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). The foundation organized a community dialogue in Oke Ooye and Ilo Olomo Ijesha communities, both located in Ilesa East Local Government Area of Osun State.
The program was supported by Osun Action Health Incorporated and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Their partnership brought strong support to the campaign and helped spread the message more effectively.
The event took place at the palace of the community heads and served as a follow-up to earlier awareness visits by the foundation. It was attended by traditional rulers, women groups, youth representatives, religious leaders, and other members of the community. The atmosphere was engaging, and many people openly shared their thoughts and experiences.
In her speech, Ambassador Lawal spoke about the serious health dangers and long-term emotional pain caused by FGM. She appealed to parents, elders, and traditional leaders to protect girls by ending this harmful practice.
“We understand that FGM is seen as a tradition by some,” she said, “but we must now think of the health and future of our daughters. It’s time to let go of practices that bring pain and suffering.”
Many community members admitted that FGM has been part of their customs for generations. However, after listening to the discussion and watching an emotional stage drama performed by the Victory Support Foundation, their views began to change. The drama clearly showed the physical and psychological effects of FGM, and many were deeply touched.
To reinforce the message and reach wider audiences beyond in-person events, the Victory Support Foundation also makes regular announcements on radio stations across Osun State. These broadcasts aim to raise awareness, challenge harmful cultural norms, and encourage dialogue in homes and communities throughout the region.
As a sign of appreciation, the foundation presented gifts to the traditional leaders and thanked them for welcoming the team and allowing open conversation. In response, Chief Ilesanmi Gbenga Sunday, the head of the Oke Ooye community, expressed his gratitude and promised to support the campaign.
“We thank the Victory Support Foundation for this important message. We will work together to protect our girls and support their future,” Chief Ilesanmi said.
Chief Agbaje Olaniyi, the head of the Ilo Olomo Ijesha community, also commended the initiative, noting that such awareness efforts are vital in transforming community mindsets and safeguarding young girls from harmful practices. He pledged his full support to the movement against FGM.
“Our culture must evolve to protect our children,” Chief Agbaje said. “We will work hand in hand with the Victory Support Foundation to ensure a brighter future for our girls.”
The Victory Support Foundation has promised to continue visiting more communities across Osun State, using dialogue, education, drama, radio outreach, and community involvement to promote the health, rights, and dignity of girls and women.